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In an era where wellness culture is constantly evolving, there’s always a new trend promising a path to optimal well-being. From the food we eat to how we move our bodies, it’s clear that there’s more than one way to better ourselves from the inside out.
Thanks to the internet and social media trends, we’ve gained more access to varying types of workouts and wellness techniques than ever before. Whether you spent the year locking in on HIIT workouts or giving Pilates a spin, it seems that the days of one-size-fits-all fitness are a thing of the past. And as we enter the new year, it’s the perfect time to upgrade your self-care and workout routine to one that not only matches your lifestyle but fits seamlessly into your “new year, new me” vibe.
For 2024, we’re all seeking innovative ways to enhance our physical, mental, and emotional health. That’s why we’re delving into some of the hottest wellness and fitness trends for the forthcoming year so that you stay on top of your goals and ahead of the curve.
1.Going Deeper
Leave the small talk for elevators in 2024 because this is the year conversations go beyond the surface.
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Leave the small talk for the elevators because 2024 will be the year of conversations that go beyond the surface. In a recent report by Pinterest, “Big Talk” will be the latest way to form deeper connections with friends, lovers, and family. The platform states that “Gen Z and Millennials will drive this trend, searching for new conversation starters and intimate questions to help couples reconnect.” So when it comes to your mental well-being, the more vulnerable you’re willing to go, the better.
2.Mobility Exercises for Longevity
We know, stretching can sometimes feel like the more monotonous part of your workouts, but what if we told you that it could be the key to unlocking a better quality of life? Mobility workouts are exercise routines designed to enhance the range of motion and flexibility of your joints and muscles. These workouts focus on improving the ability of your body to move freely through dynamic stretches, controlled movements, and joint articulations.
In 2024, the incorporation of these movements is set to be the top priority for those looking to increase flexibility, reduce stiffness, and enhance overall functional movement — so don’t skip the stretches.
3.Social Sports
It’s time to rally up your girls because next year, we’re taking our workouts from solo acts to group activations. Group sports are looking to pick up in popularity, with low-impact activities like badminton, golf, and pickleball becoming all the rage. The need for community is at an all-time high as many individuals seek third places and immerse themselves in a post-pandemic world. With the increasing need for in-person connection, people will find more enjoyment in joint activities than flying solo.
4.Kicking Into Action
When it comes to staying active in 2024, boxing might be your new thing.
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When it comes to staying active in 2024, the boxing ring may be what you’re looking for. Pinterest reports that the next great stress reliever will come in the form of taking a few punches and kicks with activities like karate, kickboxing, and jiu-jitsu. Just imagine breaking a sweat all while relieving some pent-up stress — sounds like a win-win scenario to us.
5.Bungee Workouts
If you’ve felt your day-to-day exercises getting a little stale, this new trend might just be what you need to bring the life back into your routines. Bungee fitness is a high-intensity cardio workout that requires individuals to engage their core and legs to maintain control during the airborne and downward phases from a mix of ballet, Pilates, and yoga movements. Bungee classes are popping up all over, so it’s the perfect time to add this new exercise to your fitness bucket list.
6.Digital Detox and Slow Living
It’s safe to say that everyone’s a bit burned out and tired. If it’s not the weight of our everyday responsibilities beaconing for our attention, it’s inflation, global conflicts, and more asking for it. And as the pendulum swings towards mass distraction, it’s bound to swing back in the direction of inner peace and unplugging. That’s why 2024 will be a big year for booking trips that focus on true relaxation and slowing down with little to no noise from the outside world.
These trips aren’t for exploration, they’re for introspection — taking time to recharge and embracing a lazy morning or two. For your next staycation, keep your mental health in mind.
7.Power Pilates
Pilates was everywhere this year, and in 2024, it’s bringing an even more dynamic routine to your reformer. Power Pilates provides a low-impact, full-body workout that not only strengthens the deep core but also fosters mobility, body awareness, and improved posture while enhancing the mind-body connection. So, if you’re looking to take your Pilates routine up a notch, give Power Pilates a try.
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Aley Arion is a writer and digital storyteller from the South, currently living in sunny Los Angeles. Her site, yagirlaley.com, serves as a digital diary to document personal essays, cultural commentary, and her insights into the Black Millennial experience. Follow her at @yagirlaley on all platforms!
'He Said, She Said': Love Stories Put To The Test At A Weekend For Love
At the A Weekend For Love retreat, we sat down with four couples to explore their love stories in a playful but revealing way with #HeSaidSheSaid. From first encounters to life-changing moments, we tested their memories to see if their versions of events aligned—because, as they say, every story has three sides: his, hers, and the truth.
Do these couples remember their love stories the same way? Press play to find out.
Episode 1: Indira & Desmond – Love Across the Miles
They say distance makes the heart grow fonder, but for Indira & Desmond, love made it stronger. Every mile apart deepened their bond, reinforcing the unshakable foundation of their relationship. From their first "I love you" to the moment they knew they had found home in each other, their journey is a beautiful testament to the endurance of true love.
Episode 2: Jay & Tia – A Love Story Straight Out of a Rom-Com
If Hollywood is looking for its next Black love story, they need to take notes from Jay & Tia. Their journey—from an awkward first date to navigating careers, parenthood, and personal growth—proves that love is not just about romance but also resilience. Their story is full of laughter, challenges, and, most importantly, a love that stands the test of time.
Episode 3: Larencia & Mykel – Through the Highs and Lows
A date night with police helicopters overhead? Now that’s a story! Larencia & Mykel have faced unexpected surprises, major life changes, and 14 years of choosing each other every single day. But after all this time, do they actually remember things the same way? Their episode is sure to bring some eye-opening revelations and a lot of laughs.
Episode 4: Soy & Osei – A Love Aligned in Purpose
From a chance meeting at the front door to 15 years of unwavering love, faith, and growth, Soy & Osei prove that when two souls are aligned in love and purpose, nothing can shake their foundation. Their journey is a powerful reminder that true love is built on mutual support, shared values, and a deep connection that only strengthens with time.
Each of these couples has a unique and inspiring story to tell, but do their memories match up? Watch #HeSaidSheSaid to find out!
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A Black-Owned Mobile Spa Turned My Home Into A Luxury Retreat—Here’s My Experience
There’s nothing quite like a spa day, but what’s even better is when you can enjoy one right at home. I recently had my first at-home spa day with The Party Spa, a Black-owned mobile spa founded by Asher Wilkins.
Asher’s team of 25 professionals offers a wide range of services, including massages, facials, body scrubs, and more. Asher, a licensed massage therapist, stumbled upon a unique opportunity to combine massage services with the vibrant nightlife scene.
The Party Spa Team
Courtesy
"I noticed there was a need in the New York City night life, especially with the after work parties and I felt that I had that answer in regards to bringing what I did, because I'm a licensed massage therapist," he tells xoNecole. "So how could I incorporate this into what I like to do, which was socialize and network, and party.
"I went to some club owners and some promoters, and I told them about the idea. I said, let's include the chair massage along with what you have going on and it worked." At that time, the clientele was primarily women who needed a massage after a long night of dancing, especially in heels.
London getting a massage from Asher
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The Party Spa, having expanded its services to cater to a diverse clientele, including business professionals and celebrities like Mary J. Blige, has even graced music tours like the I Love the 90s tour. Their extensive travel across the country led them to my doorstep, where I eagerly awaited my pampering session.
Asher and Miss Jazz arrived at my home and began infusing the space with a relaxing spa vibe. They set up an essential oil diffuser and provided me with a cozy white robe for a comfortable change. While I had the option to choose my preferred music, I opted for the soothing melodies of traditional spa music.
Asher skillfully administered my massage, applying medium to deep pressure that perfectly suited my preferences. He effectively worked out the lingering pain in my lower back and hips, leaving me feeling rejuvenated and pampered. The delightful aroma of the massage oils intensified as he continued rubbing me down, enhancing the overall sensory experience.
London receiving a facial from Miss Jazz.
Courtesy
Once Asher finished, it was time for my facial. Facials are rare for me, so this was a delightful treat. Miss Jazz began with a facial massage, a new experience for me that I thoroughly enjoyed.
It felt like a continuation of the body massage I had just received. From there, she applied various products to my face, including a scrub, cleanser, vitamin C serum, and cream. She also gave me a honey and sugar lip scrub, which I desperately needed.
The result was radiant, smooth skin. The Party Spa transformed my first at-home spa experience into a blissful one. I found myself in a tranquil state of mind and relaxed the rest of the day.
The Party Spa is expanding its footprint by launching a podcast, Confessions of a Celebrity Massage Therapist, and working with non-profits to donate beauty and wellness services to survivors of sex trafficking and abuse. To learn more, visit their website thepartyspa.com, or follow them on Instagram @thepartyspa.
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